Chocolate Popcorn Clusters

Ingredients:

  • 8 cups popped popcorn (plain, without butter or salt)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for a sweet and salty flavor)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or peanuts, optional)
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Popcorn: Pop the popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels. Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a medium-sized saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter together. Stir frequently to ensure even melting. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  3. Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and add sea salt if desired. The salt can enhance the sweetness and add a delightful contrast.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the popped popcorn. Use a spatula to gently fold the popcorn until it’s evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
  5. Add Nuts and Coconut (Optional): If you want to add some extra crunch and flavor, fold in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
  6. Form Clusters: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or your hands, scoop small clusters of the chocolate-coated popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until the clusters are firm.
  8. Serve: Once the clusters have hardened, remove them from the refrigerator. Serve and enjoy your delicious chocolate popcorn clusters!

Note: Feel free to get creative with additional toppings like drizzling white chocolate over the clusters or adding sprinkles for a festive touch. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for an extended shelf life.